The Iconic 1 oz. American Eagle Silver Dollar: Type 1 & Type 2
Purity, Content, and Dimensions of the American Eagle Silver Coins:
Both the first and second designs of the American Eagle Silver coins boast a one troy ounce weight of .999 fine silver attesting to its exceptional purity. Although the American Eagle’s silver content accounts for the majority of the precious metals within, there is also a small amount of copper alloy added to the coins for durability purposes. Both versions of the coins exude elegance, feature reeded edges, and have the same overall dimensions: an impressive diameter of 40.6mm and a thickness of 2.98mm for bullion and 3.10mm for proof coins. This meticulous sizing and purity precision elevates each coin to a highly sought-after treasure, artfully blending technical precision with the inherent charm of silver.
American Eagle Silver Coin Type 1 Design
The Silver Eagle’s obverse side captures the figure of Lady Liberty graced by the rays of the sun while striding towards a new dawn and brighter future. Originally designed in 1916 for the Walking Liberty half-dollar circulating coin by renowned sculptor, Adolph A. Weinman, she is adorned with a gown and draped in the majestic American flag symbolizing freedom, hope, and perseverance. Her right hand is extended as her left cradles olive branches as a gesture of peace. If you look closely, the artist’s initials are delicately inscribed near the base of her gown. Each coin proudly displays its year of minting, along with the timeless American mottos “Liberty” and “In God We Trust”.
The reverse side of the coin features the iconic American Eagle with outstretched wings draped in a banner inscribed with “E Pluribus Unum” translating to “Out of Many, One”. The United States shield covers the bird’s chest, while his talons grasp arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing America’s commitment to peace and strength. Above, a constellation of thirteen stars shines brightly.
American Silver Eagle New Design
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In celebration of the American Eagle’s 35th anniversary, the US Mint introduced a revamp of the coin’s artwork and security features. The 2021 design welcomes a fresh new look, particularly evident on the reverse. Designed by artist, Emily Damstra, the American Bald Eagle elegantly descends, wings spread wide, ready to land on an oak branch. The design extends all the way to the coin’s edge, where the tip of the eagle’s wing seemingly glides along the rim.
On the obverse, Weinman’s Lady Liberty remains largely untouched with a few minor changes. The coin’s field, featuring the familiar US flag and sun rays exudes newfound richness and depth and the initials ‘AM’ are found below ‘In God We Trust.’ In an ode to its historic roots, the 2021 Type 2 Silver Eagle in a familiar font used to inscribe earlier versions of the coin, although a touch bolder.
Security Enhancement: American Silver Eagle Type 1 vs Type 2
While the unique design of both coins flawlessly unites patriotism with artistry, there is a notable difference between the two. The American Eagle Silver coin Type 2 features a modification of the coin’s security measures. For instance, a single reed is missing from the coin’s edge, the position of which has changed. This simple feature acts as a discreet anti-counterfeiting tool..
American Eagle Silver Coin Type 1 or 2: Which Coin Is Better?
When choosing between the Type 1 and Type 2 versions of the American Silver Eagle, the differences in design and historical significance might be factors to consider for collectors. However, to the silver investor buying coins in bulk, it should not matter much at all. The Type 1’s traditional emblem carries a sense of heritage, while the Type 2’s intricate details provide a contemporary flare.For more information about both Type I and Type II American Eagle Silver Coins, contact a Monex account representative.
Ultimately, the decision rests on individual preferences: the enduring charm of Type 1’s design or the modernized vitality of Type 2, and respective silver marketplace prices. Either way, since its inception, the American Eagle Silver coin has proven time and again to be a sound product for a silver investment. The combination of silver’s intrinsic value and rich American history makes both versions a great choice for owning silver coins.